A Garden of Herbs by Eleanour Sinclair Rohde is a comprehensive guide that delves into the traditional practices of herb gardening and usage, reflecting the wisdom of past generations. The book begins with a historical overview of herb gardens, tracing their significance from ancient times through various English herbals, including the Anglo-Saxon Bald’s Leech Book. This foundation sets the stage for readers to appreciate the cultural and medicinal importance of herbs throughout history.
The core of the book is a detailed alphabetical listing of common herbs, each accompanied by descriptions, cultivation tips, and practical applications. Rohde provides numerous recipes sourced from old English herbals, such as Gerard’s Herbal and John Evelyn’s Acetaria, as well as her own contributions. These recipes encompass a wide range of uses, including culinary dishes like artichoke pie and marigold pudding, beverages like wormwood brandy, and even herbal-based cosmetics and perfumes. The inclusion of such diverse applications underscores the versatility of herbs in daily life.
Beyond individual herb profiles, the book offers chapters dedicated to specific categories of herbal usage. There are sections on salads, pottages, puddings, drinks, and homemade wines, each enriched with traditional recipes. Rohde also addresses the practical aspects of herb gardening, providing guidance on the picking and drying of herbs to preserve their potency. The final chapters explore the use of herbs in creating scents, such as pomanders and bath waters, highlighting the sensory pleasures herbs can offer.
Eleanour Sinclair Rohde’s A Garden of Herbs serves as both a historical reference and a practical manual for anyone interested in the cultivation and use of herbs. Her meticulous research and passion for the subject shine through, making the book a valuable resource for gardeners, cooks, and herbal enthusiasts alike. By bridging the gap between past traditions and contemporary practices, Rohde invites readers to rediscover the timeless benefits of herbs in everyday life.